Time to invest in a camera bag so I can bring my camera around safely. I bike a lot and have an over the shoulder type bag which is really not suitable.
I also bring my laptop to work everyday so was thinking if I could combine both, that would be awesome, so I could head off after work and have a goo around the area for photo opportunities!
I don't know where to start... there's a million and one different types and prices! Does anyone have any recommendations? What I should look for? What's an absolute must in a camera bag??
I use a Manfrotto backpack - with my computer and camera I have no trouble carrying it while traveling. (and I'm 83) has an outside pocket for water bottle, several smaller zippered pockets and padded space for the computer. Nicely padded straps. Roughly 18x13x6. Don't remember the price - not cheap but not outlandish. It looks similar to the Manfrotto Advanced Active III 12L. Do prefer the lower outside zipped area for the camera - easy to retrieve. All well padded
Consider the weight of what you will be carrying. If there is any amount of weight, using only shoulder straps quickly becomes uncomfortable.
Consider a bag that has a good waist strap to place the weight on the hips. If you don't carry much camera equipment a hiking backpack with inserts can work well. If you carry extra lens and a tripod a more camera oriented bag may work out better.
I retired (gave up on!) A Tamarac bag with out waist strap and am now using a LowePro Flipside 150AW. It is great for access and I can carry it all day without shoulders and back hurting. This one may not work well because of your computer, but it is an example of a comfortable carry.
Just Like what @vera365 said, I also use a backpack,and “insert”…occasionally, a messenger bag. Bags must be in nylon waterproof material.Check Etsy.com they’ve cool and trendy stuff..
A bit late to the party, but I use a Vanguard camera backpack with a built-in laptop compartment. It’s the Havana 48 https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1273429-REG/vanguard_havana_48_backpack_khaki.html. I find it light and very comfortable. I like the chest and waist straps for balancing the load. The lower access port makes it easy to pull out just the lenses when you need to swap, and it has many pockets for whatever you need. Would highly recommend.
Oh, and I have a couple = some for larger capacity with various lenses, some for just a quick outing.
Consider a bag that has a good waist strap to place the weight on the hips. If you don't carry much camera equipment a hiking backpack with inserts can work well. If you carry extra lens and a tripod a more camera oriented bag may work out better.
I retired (gave up on!) A Tamarac bag with out waist strap and am now using a LowePro Flipside 150AW. It is great for access and I can carry it all day without shoulders and back hurting. This one may not work well because of your computer, but it is an example of a comfortable carry.